For the most complete and up to date info on the coronavirus go to the State of NJ COVID-19 Information Hub at https://covid19.nj.gov/ For the most complete and up to date info on the coronavirus go to the State of NJ COVID-19 Information Hub at https://covid19.nj.gov/

Welcome to Rockaway Borough, New Jersey

Rockaway Borough is a community located in the northern portion of Morris County and is approximately 35 miles west of New York City.
Its 2.1 square miles is home to approximately 6800 residents. The Borough is nestled between two major thoroughfares; Interstate 80 and NJ State Highway 46. The Borough is governed by our elected Mayor and six Council Members.

The Borough of Rockaway was formed on July 17, 1894 when it split from the larger Rockaway Township. The Borough’s original settlement was in the 1720’s. Rockaway Borough firmly established itself as a hub of industry, commerce, and culture beginning in 1836 with the completion of the Morris Canal. That legacy continues today with many companies and businesses calling Rockaway Borough their home. Morris Canal routes and locations are currently marked with identifying wayfinding signs and interpretative panels. Many of the homes in the Borough date back to the 1800’s and have been preserved with their stately original architectural appearance.

Rockaway Borough offers its residents many opportunities for community involvement, engagement, and recreation. There are numerous clubs, committees, associations, or athletic teams to satisfy a wide range of interests and passions. Well maintained parks and athletic fields are located throughout the town.

When it comes to shopping, cuisine, and recreation, Rockaway Borough is a destination. Fine formal dining, casual atmosphere, or fast food establishments are abundant through the Borough. With its quaint taverns, pubs, and cafes, many located in historic buildings through the town, it offers an inviting opportunity to enjoy varied menus and friendly atmospheres.

Convenient shopping can be found in our downtown district and along the highway corridor. A wide-range of fine retail establishments and services are located within a few minutes’ drive or walk.

Popular locations frequently visited in the Borough include the scenic Rockaway River area that runs through the length of the town and the Parks Lake walking trail. Known for their year-round beauty, they are visited by hundreds of folks each year.

Rockaway Borough is an inviting community to live, work, shop, or visit. One will quickly find that by strolling around this quaint historic town, with its close-knit inclusive, friendly and welcoming atmosphere, it has all of the amenities of urban life with the quality of life found in a small town. We invite you to visit soon.

Notices and Announcements

Vote by Mail

June 1, 2020
Due to COVID-19, New Jersey elections have been re-scheduled for July 7th, and now will be primarily Vote-By-Mail.
Governor Murphy signed Executive Order #144 stating that the July 7th Primary Election will be conducted primarily by Vote by Mail (“VBM”), with limited in-person polling locations open. VBM will be new to many Morris County Residents, and the process itself is being adapted for activation at scale in light of the health crisis. It is important for our voters to understand how the new process will work so we can be sure our votes are valid under the new rules. Click here for a Vote by Mail FAQs.

2020 Budget

Court Update

During the COVID-19 pandemic, municipal courts have canceled their in-person court sessions. With the use of technology, certain cases may be able to be heard and adjudicated remotely. It is advised that you contact the court to set up a video court proceeding and provide your telephone and email address.

Coronavirus Information

For the most complete and up to date info on COVID-19 go to the State of NJ COVID-19 Information Hub at https://covid19.nj.gov/

From the Office of the Mayor

COVID-19 UPDATE as of May 19, 2020

After review and consultation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I have made the unfortunate decision to cancel all of our Summer Sport and Recreation programs including swimming at Parks Lake. Recreation facilities which include ball fields, school grounds, playgrounds, hardcourts, volleyball court as well as public bathrooms and water fountains remain closed to the public until further notice.

Effective immediately the following recreation facilities are open for passive recreation only:

Parks Lake and Donatoni walking paths

Parks Lake Beach (swimming prohibited)

Parks Lake and Rockaway River fishing

Jackson Ave. Park

All benches and picnic tables

We will continue to monitor for social distancing and congregating of groups of people and will enforce as needed. These decisions will be continually reviewed and updated as needed.

Borough Hall will be closed to all public access until further notice. Only employees and officials will be allowed to enter. Public can use the drop box located just outside of the main entrance. We will remain fully staffed and can be reached by phone or email for any questions or concerns you may have.

The Community Center is closed to all public groups, committees, meetings, etc., until further notice. Only Mayor and Council will be permitted to meet when necessary.

The Borough Library is closed — public access is prohibited. No pick-ups or returns accepted.

The Borough Recycling Center will remain closed until May 19th. Please continue to utilize curbside pick-up until such time.

Your health and safety is our number one priority. Please take every precaution possible to limit your exposure to COVID-19. We know that our Community is one of resolve, and we appreciate your efforts to help us through this trying time. We look forward to getting back to business as usual. In the interim, we will keep you informed on a regular basis through our website and social media. Please check frequently for updates.

Mayor Tom Mulligan

April was Census Month

The deadline to complete the census form online, by phone, or by mailing in the paper form was April 14. Help us to ensure an accurate count. Click here for more information.